Blue Jackets have 3 players who will likely be moved this Trade Deadline

The Columbus Blue Jackets are in an interesting spot this season. While they are very much in the thick of the Eastern Conference wild-card race, they also have several question marks surrounding their UFA's.

They have a handful of players on expiring deals, but given their position in the standings, GM Don Waddell may choose to keep most of them.

That group includes Ivan Provorov, Justin Danforth, Mathieu Olivier, Kevin Labanc, and Dante Fabbro.

That leaves James van Riemsdyk, Jack Johnson, and Sean Kuraly as players the Blue Jackets could look to move to improve their roster or acquire draft picks in return.

The Blue Jackets will likely have Kirill Marchenko, Boone Jenner, Yegor Chinakhov, Sean Monahan, and Erik Gudbranson all return to the lineup this season. Their returns will not only fill roster spots but also prevent the team from making a panic move at the deadline. Instead, Waddell could look to recoup a few draft picks or potentially add another roster player with term and see how far this group can go.

If Columbus does move van Riemsdyk, Johnson, and Kuraly, which teams would be the most interested?

Starting with JVR, the Toronto Maple Leafs, Florida Panthers, and Vegas Golden Knights would likely all express interest. However, there is one sleeper team—the Washington Capitals. His brother, Trevor van Riemsdyk, plays for the Capitals, and it would be a great story to see them chase a Stanley Cup together.

For Kuraly, several teams could use his depth and experience. The Edmonton Oilers, Dallas Stars, and Carolina Hurricanes are a few that could be in the market for another bottom-six forward.

Lastly, for Jack Johnson, one team stands out—the Colorado Avalanche. While other teams may show interest, a reunion with the Avalanche makes the most sense given his familiarity with the organization.

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